Vision Now July 2022

July 2022

OPTIC AL

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Vision Now July 2022 1

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References: 1. Only Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® ONE DAY contact lenses offer a complete moisture + comfort system with Advanced MoistureSeal® and ComfortFeel Technologies plus a complete design of high Dk/t, low modulus, UV blocking and High Definition™ Optics. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® ONE DAY contact lenses deliver health through its complete system working together to support a healthy ocular environment, the inclusion of eye health ingredients which are retained over 16 hours and the high allowance of oxygen permeability (Dk/t=134) [Applicable references 2,4,5,13]. For all references: www.ultraoneday.co.uk

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Bausch + Lomb ULTRA ONEJuly DAY and MoistureSeal are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates. All other product/brand names and/or logos are trademarks of their respective owners.

Vision Now 2022 ©2022 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated.

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Inside

Vision Now magazine is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd, the UK’s largest purchasing group for independent opticians.

Edito r: Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

19

26

Features Contributor: Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr Business Editor: Philip Mullins FBDO p.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk Art Editor: Stacey Potter BA (Hons) spottcreative.co.uk Publisher: Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAA0

NEWS 4 7 9 11 13 15

UpSide family completed MiSight parameters extended New man at Charmant BCLA Focus “a hit” New features for Anterion Departure at GOC

Editor’s comment

The deadline for responding to the General Optical Council’s call for evidence on the Opticians Act is 18 July so there’s still time to have an input.

T

he optical bodies are leading the way with their detailed stakeholder responses, and are asking that all practitioners take the time to have their say on potentially the most significant regulatory reform in optics for a generation (see page 19).

FEATURES 19 Practice matters Protecting the public 23 Product profile Dry eye management: a circle of care 25 SOC 2022 Look north for CPD 26 Product profile Growing from within

REGULARS 15 An independent view 17 Developing thoughts 28 Style spotlight 30 Suppliers’ directory

28

Amongst the hot topics under review is to (finally) allow dispensing opticians to refract as part of the sight test, under the guidance of an optometrist. There is large-scale support for the change, which would free up the optometrist’s time to support a wider range of clinical activities whilst serving the best interests of the patient.

As Debbie McGill, head of policy and public affairs at the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, states: “We need to get this right to future-proof the legislative and regulatory support to enable optometrists, dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians to deliver services as they extend their scope of practice through their continued professional development in line with the public’s future eye health needs and safety.”

This month’s product profiles centre on dry eye management, sustainable eyewear, and photochromic plus polarised lenses. We also have a taster of this November’s Scottish Optical Conference, which is offering NEG members a reduced delegate rate.

On the business front, Phil Mullins highlights the benefits of implementing efficiencies across the entire business as a standard strategy; all providing plenty of food for thought as we head into our summer recess. Vision Now will be back in September, so until then: stay safe and enjoy any downtime you have planned.

Nicky Collinson Editor

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk VISION NOW is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Limited, Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DN VISION NOW is printed by CFH Docmail Ltd. St Peter’s Park, Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3UP

The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for publication in the magazine and reserves the right to amend them.

Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or pseudonym, is accepted on the understanding that its author is responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication does not imply that such opinions are those of The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publication should be original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they will not be published in any other journal. Acceptance of material for publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any particular issue. Copyright © 2022 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the publishers.

Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored in a retrieval system of any nature.

@PK_NEG

Vision Now July 2022 3

News

Want to feature in VN?

Email the editor at: nicola.collinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

@PK_NEG @national-eyecare-group www.nationaleyecare.co.uk

Menicon

UpSide family now complete

New Miru 1day UpSide Toric from Menicon features Smart Touch technology and completes Menicon’s family of Miru 1day UpSide lenses. With Menicon Smart Touch packaging, the wearer only touches the outer surface of the lens. The new toric lens features a sophisticated design enhancing its stability and comfort, allowing the lens to naturally orientate on the eye, regardless of how it is applied. Using a unique lens design, Menicon says it has created a new breathable ultra-low modulus material allowing hassle free handling and good shape retention. The lens also has built-in Class 2 UV A and B filters.

Kevin Mitchell, Menicon managing director, said: “We are very proud to introduce the final member of the Miru 1day UpSide family.

Eye health and hygiene are central to our design process and using a refreshing new approach, we’ve created a product which reduces contamination when applied and enhances comfort for the wearer. Its design will be transformational for daily disposable lens wearers, making their day-to-day experience quicker, easier and much more comfortable. We are excited to finally be able to share it with our customers and make a real difference to their lives.”

Silhouette Silhoutte has partnered with music and fashion icon, Rita Ora, to showcase its collection of sunglasses this season. In a series of summery images, the singer is showcasing the Austrian brand’s 2022 sun collection amongst her 20 million+ social media followers. In one of the images, Ora wears the Futura Dot, limited to just 1,964 pairs. Music legends wore the Futura back in the 1970s, making it a coveted collector’s item.

De Rigo

4 Vision Now July 2022

The singer is also photographed wearing Fisher Island sunglasses from Silhouette’s award-winning Rimless Shades collection.

Commenting on the Rimless Shades collection, Silhouette brand director, Atissa Tadjadod, said: “Rita’s boldly confident personality perfectly reflects the glamorous, statement-making nature of the rimless Fisher Island eyewear”.

FRAME THE ACTION.

Police Eyewear has partnered with Sony in the new movie Bullet Train – in cinemas this August. In the movie, Ladybug the main character wears an iconic pair of Police frames: a bold acetate design with unmistakable thick profiles, the original eagle logo on the temples and fine decorations. The glasses have been specifically designed for the film, aiming to give the protagonist a unique and recognisable accessory.

NEG members can contact their De Rigo area manager to view the collection. The contacts are: Paul Nolan for SE&W England on 07741 548565 or email paul.nolan@derigo.com; Andrew Bowe for NW England, N Wales and the Midlands on 07718 645747 or email andrew.bowe@derigo.com; and Roni for Scotland and NE England on 07710442821 or email roni.pennett@derigo.com

Ora in Silhouette statement sunglasses

© 2022 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER

Eyewear movie partnership

THE LENS TO START IN AND STAY IN AVAIL ABLE IN SPHERE AND TORIC

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provides the on-eye stability astigmats need for consistent vision.6

supports efficient fitting for you and your astigmatic customers.7**

Contact your Alcon® sales representative to find out more. *Compared to 1-DAY ACUVUE^ MOIST, clariti^ 1 day, 1-Day ACUVUE^ TrueEye^, ACUVUE^ OASYS 1-DAY, Biotrue^ ONEday, and MyDay^ contact lenses; Based on in vitro studies wherein wettability was measured using the iDDrop System (p<0.05) **Based on clinical studies of the PRECISION BALANCE 8|4™ Lens Design with AIR OPTIX® for Astigmatism contact lenses; n=163. ^Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

References: 1. PRECISION1 (DDT2) Lens with Smart Surface study; Alcon data on file, 2019. 2. Tucker B, Leveillee E, Bauman E, Subbaraman L. Characterization of the Surface Properties of a Novel Daily Disposable Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lens. Poster presented at the American Academy of Optometry Annual Conference, October 23-26; Orlando FL. 3. IDDrop Comparative Study DACP and BioTrue ONEday Report; Alcon data on file, 2019. 4. IDDrop Comparative Study Oasys 1 Day and TruEye; Alcon data on file, 2019. 5. Cummings S, Giedd B, Pearson C. Clinical performance of a new daily disposable spherical contact lens. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:E-abstract 195375. 6. Based on a confirmatory claims study on Fit and Rotation; Alcon data on file, 2020.

7. In a randomized, subject-masked, multi-site clinical study with over 150 patients; significance demonstrated at the 0.05 level; Alcon data on file, 2005.

See instructions for use for wear, care, precautions, warnings, contraindications and adverse effects. Find at ifu.alcon.com PRECISION1, SMARTSURFACE, PRECISION BALANCE 8|4, Alcon and Alcon logos are trademarks of Alcon Inc. 14933 © 2022 Alcon Inc. UKIE-PR1-2200005

Vision Now July 2022 5

6 Vision Now July 2022

Positive Impact

International Eyewear

Positive Impact (PI) has announced a new collaboration with Lumenis BE, the inventor of intense pulsed light technology. PI will now provide professional support, education and clinical training in the UK for OptiLight – said to be the first and only light treatment FDA-approved for the management of dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction with its patented Optimal Pulse Technology.

From contemporary classics to traditional favourites, Puccini Eyewear from International Eyewear is designed to embody modest elegance: a collection of timeless styles embracing the beauty in simplicity with noteworthy eyeshapes and inspiring detailing. Comfort is at the forefront of the frame designs, without compromising on understated style, with considered features including silicone nose pads as standard.

The companies believe that independent practices can expand their business with OptiLight, offering a new line of treatment for dry eye and a possible upgrade to aesthetic skin treatments.

EMEA Lumenis Vision sales director, Paris Hatzianastasiadis, said: “We are delighted to introduce OptiLight to the UK market and offer a root-cause treatment that elevates dry eye management. With our one-of-a-kind technology, and Positive Impact’s experienced team to support our activities on the ground in the UK, we can improve health and quality of life for dry eye patients.”

PI managing director, Nick Atkins, added: “OptiLight fits perfectly with our business ethos of only working with best-in-class products that offer differentiation and generate sales for the independent practice.

I have long felt that the future of successful dry eye management, both clinically and commercially, lies with professional in-practice treatment options.”

Elegant new models Puccini 318 and Puccini 319 showcase a stainless steel eye front, coupled with handmade acetate sides featuring tonal colour block temple laminations in a delicate, feminine colour palette. This timeless design is available in supra (PC319) and petite (PC318) styles with additional considered comfort features.

Stepper The new SI-20119 style from Stepper features both TX5 plastic and titanium, offering “the perfect combination for eyewear that’s fit for purpose”, says Stepper managing director, Peter Reeve.

The frame’s TX5 and titanium elements offer both weight and skin allergy benefits.

The TX5 front is moulded into its final

News

Modest elegance for a feminine look

The Stepper SI-20119

form, including facial contour design and the renown Stepper bridge, creating a frame that “works in harmony with the wearer’s anatomy”. Svelte titanium sides offer rigidity and strength, holding the frame securely in place. The SI-20119 is available in smoke, grey-blue mottle and blue in size 54-17.

CooperVision CooperVision has expanded the parameters for MiSight 1 day contact lenses to cover -0.25D to -10.00D (0.50D steps after -6.00D). This means the lens covers 99.97 per cent of prescriptions for Asian children and 99.97 per cent for Caucasian children who have myopia and less than 1.00D of astigmatism, said the company.

MiSight 1 day contact lenses are backed by the longest-running soft contact lens study among children. The trial has, according to CooperVision, proven that MiSight 1 day works for nearly all children with myopia, cuts the worsening of myopia by half, works at any age a child starts treatment (aged

Every dioptre matters

eight plus), works for as long as the child wears them, and that myopia management benefits from MiSight 1 day are retained after treatment.

“Every dioptre matters, particularly for children whose worsening myopia may have already placed them at a higher risk

for conditions such as myopic maculopathy and glaucoma,” said Elizabeth Lumb, CooperVision director of global professional affairs, myopia management. “While early treatment is best, it’s never too late to start.

Even older children starting with MiSight® 1 day have seen the worsening of their myopia cut by half”.

Vision Now July 2022 7

S U M M E R 2 0 2 2 C O L L E C T I O N N O W AVA I L A B L E Contact your Regional Sales Manager today to view the collection Lenstec Eyewear, Unit 4, Bedwas Business Centre, Bedwas, Caerphilly CF83 8DU Customer Care Team Tel: 02920 857122 Customer Order Fax: 02920 920480 8 Vision Now July 2022 @lenstec_eyewear Email: eyewear@lenstec.co.uk | www.lensteceyewear.co.uk

@lensteceyewear

News ACLM

Daniel Hardiman-McCartney

College of Optometrists Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, clinical advisor to the College of Optometrists, has been awarded an MBE for services to optometry in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Colin Davidson, College president, said: “On behalf of the College, I would like to send my enormous congratulations to our College clinical adviser, whose services to eye health and care are being recognised through this award, and at such an important time for the nation as we mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“It’s wonderful to see the work of our profession celebrated. Not only does the award represent outstanding personal achievement, but it also reflects growing recognition, by decision-makers and the public, of the vital contribution to public health that all optometrists and optical teams make, and their tireless work and commitment throughout the pandemic. We hope this inspires the whole profession as we gain ever greater recognition, and continue to bring optometry to the forefront of primary care.”

The Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers (ACLM) has published its 2022 Contact Lens Year Book listing technical details for all the contact lenses, solutions and materials produced by ACLM member companies. The Year Book also covers the overwhelming bulk of products available in the UK. The Year Book can be ordered from the ACLM website, www.aclm.org.uk, which is aimed at encouraging new wearers and supporting existing ones, and which also has a restricted area for eyecare practitioners.

There is a range of payment options, and purchasers receive free access to the tables in the Year Book Online. Access is free for up to 12 months for all those who have purchased the Year Book, as well as qualifying students at the various training establishments.

2022 Year Book published

Go Bulget kids model BGK9021

Go Eyewear

The Bulget Kids collection from Go Eyewear offers 100 per cent protection from UV rays – with polarised lenses in all of its sunglasses. The frames are specially designed and manufactured to fit young faces and small noses, offering lightweight styles in bright colour combinations.

Founded in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Bulget Occhiali is part of the Go Eyewear Group and has been creating spectacles and sunglasses synonymous with design, technology and quality since it launched internationally in 2009.

Charmant

CORE

Nick Bandy has joined the Charmant Group as field sales manager for the UK, Netherlands and Flanders. He is now responsible for managing the direct sales teams in these geographical areas, as well as reinforcing customer relationships and developing new business opportunities.

A new study conducted by the University of Waterloo Department of Chemical Engineering and the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) in Canada has determined that human coronaviruses can easily be removed from contact lens surfaces, although regimen matters depending on the type of lens care solution.

Nick has more than 18 years’ experience in the optical industry – leading and training teams across the UK. He said: “I’m delighted to be joining Charmant at such an exciting time and being part of the growth plans. We already have a strong market presence and I look forward to enhancing that further with the teams”.

Investigators found that, most notably, rub and rinse steps were crucial for non-oxidative systems, while products containing hydrogen peroxide and povidone-iodine removed contaminants through soaking alone.

Nick Bandy

‘The impact of a rub and rinse regimen on removal of human coronaviruses from contemporary contact lens materials‘ (Nogueira C et al) is in press from Contact Lens & Anterior Eye, the peer review journal of the British Contact Lens Association.

Vision Now July 2022 9

The longest myopia management spectacle lens study in the world!

MiYOSMART: the smart way to treat myopia in children.

10 Vision Now July 2022

Now available in the UK & Ireland.

Access the accreditation course by scanning the QR code:

News CooperVision CooperVision has acquired EnsEyes, supplier of orthokeratology (ortho-k) and scleral contact lenses in Europe’s Nordic region. The company will operate within the CooperVision Specialty EyeCare Group.

Headquartered in Kolding, Denmark, EnsEyes has partnered with practitioners in Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland for the past decade providing customised lenses and professional education. The acquisition is expected to help accelerate

growth of specialty lens adoption across these markets.

“We have collaborated with EnsEyes for years, including its use of MyProcornea for lens ordering,” said Juan Carlos Aragón, president, CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. “Joining CooperVision will give its highly respected team more resources for growth, further build the expertise of our organisation, and support eyecare professionals’ soaring enthusiasm for specialty fitting”.

Rebecca Jasper, NRC sustainability champion

ABDO The Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ (ABDO) National Resource Centre (NRC) has launched a sustainability policy and strategy committing to: completing the ABDO Sustainability Self-Assessment, updating it six monthly and sharing progress, and ensuring the supply chain has responsible ethical and social responsibility for the provenance of it products. The NRC also aims to inspire staff and visitors to recognise their role in safeguarding the future of the planet.

Rebecca Jasper, NRC sustainability champion, said: “It’s exciting to be the sustainability champion here at the NRC, and to lead change within the team to help actively reduce our impact on the environment. Right now, we are encouraging all our visitors to be green.

We already have a lot of sustainable resources in place, and I am always looking for ways to improve what we offer.”

Find out more about the events venue at www.nrcbirmingham.org.uk

BCLA The British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) has hailed its inaugural hybrid conference, BCLA Focus, a hit. Held last month at the Vox in Birmingham, and streamed live online, delegates described the event as offering a “winning formula”. Looking at the past, present and future of contact lenses, delegates heard from experts and keynote speakers from around the world. The event also honoured all new BCLA Fellows since the start of the pandemic, and those who had completed certificates in dry eye and myopia management. Professor James Wolffsohn was awarded the 2022 BCLA Medal and received a standing ovation from

BCLA Focus hits the spot

a packed audience.

BCLA chief executive, Luke Stevens-Burt, said: “For two years, eyecare professionals have been stuck inside their practices and unable to discuss new research, see new technology or see each other in person.

Seeing the looks on people’s faces as they finally caught up with old friends is something that will live long in the memory.

We were able to bring the expertise of leading global figures to a worldwide audience for a programme that has got everyone thinking about the way we view contact lenses and the anterior eye.”

Vision Care for Homeless People Elaine Styles, chair of Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP), and a dedicated leader in the cause of good vision for everyone, was presented with the Hero of the Year 2022 Award at the recent Eyecare conference. “It was a huge honour and total surprise. It is very rewarding working with such a dedicated VCHP team who deliver an essential service to some of the most vulnerable in the UK. Seeing the smiles on the faces of homeless people as they collect their glasses is a privilege,” said Elaine.

Stuart Wellings, director of Eyecare Education, which organises Eyecare, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to present this to Elaine for all the amazing work she and the VCHP team do.

A very worthy winner of the first ever Eyecare Awards Hero of the Year.” Eyecare launched a fundraising appeal at the awards evening in Glasgow in support of the charity, raising £769.

For details of upcoming Eyecare CPD events visit https://eyecare.education/roadshows

Hero award for charity chair

Vision Now July 2022 11

Storm the beaches!

If you can, get down to the beach and enjoy the sun and the surf.

Whatever their look, anybody can optimise their style with highquality prescription sun lenses, featuring NuPolar polarising technology.

UV400 protection and a choice of mirror colours.

To find out more, email sales@norville.co.uk or call 01452 528686

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12 Vision Now July 2022 livingston@norville.co.uk sales@norville.co.uk

News

Heidelberg Engineering Heidelberg Engineering has added new clinical features to its anterior segment solution, Anterion, which combines biometry, IOL calculations, cornea diagnostics, and anterior chamber metrics based on high-resolution swept-source OCT images. Existing Anterion customers can now upgrade to add epithelial thickness measurements, intuitive visualisation for the assessment of corneal ectasia, and automatic anterior chamber measurements to their device. For new customers, the clinical tools are already integrated.

“We are excited to present these new clinical tools to the ophthalmic community,” said Steven Thomson, clinical director anterior segment at Heidelberg Engineering.

“With this update, Anterion can support eyecare professionals in multiple clinical

New features for Anterion

disciplines and build on its strength: superb image quality that contributes to advanced

IOL power prediction methods and corneal diagnostics.”

BCLA

College of Optometrists

Luke Stevens-Burt, BCLA chief Online open access executive, said: “BCLA CLEAR for a global consensus is a highly important initiative report, which delivers and the published findings have evidence-based guidance already made influential impacts on all aspects of to shape contact lens fitting prescribing and fitting today and future advancements. contact lenses, has been To have the online open extended for another access extended for a further 12 months. The British 12 months is great news for Contact Lens Association eyecare professionals around (BCLA) Continued the world.

Learning EvidenceCLEAR open access extended based Academic Reports “They represent benchmarks of current (CLEAR) feature work from panels of knowledge and will be useful for globally respected experts, acting as a practitioners, students, researchers and “blueprint for the future” of the profession industry colleagues for years to come.” Visit and helping to deliver the best-possible www.bcla.org.uk for more information. patient care.

The College of Optometrists and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists have developed new guidance in response to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NG81 Glaucoma: diagnosis and management guidance. The guidance maps optometrists’ qualifications and training to the different categories of glaucoma risk, as set out by the GLAUC-STRAT-FAST risk tool. It highlights the need for glaucoma care pathways to fully recognise and utilise local optometrists’ competences, and specifies which qualifications are required for autonomously managing patients in different risk categories.

The latest styles in the Esprit Kids collection from Charmant are designed as high quality fashion frames that kids will love and parents will trust when it comes to protecting their children’s eyes. Two new unisex styles have been added to enhance the choices available.

Featuring bright colour contrasts, model ET33445 is a rectangular style that comes in black, brown and blue with sporty side stripes that match end-tip tones. Model ET33446 is a softer, rounded frame in fresh purple, red and grey with coloured side stripes and end-tips.

Made with Ultem material, the frames are flexible, durable, lightweight and comfortable.

‘‘

‘‘

Charmant

Esprit Kids model ET33446 in red

Angela Whitaker, optometrist and co-author of the new guidance, said: “Multiple models of glaucoma care have evolved across the UK’s health services, and it is crucial that optometrists in primary and secondary care are empowered to contribute to multidisciplinary eyecare pathways, helping to increase capacity and improve patient outcomes.” The guidelines specify that services should be configured to meet patient demand, and developed using robust risk stratification.

Multiple models of glaucoma care have evolved across the UK’s health services...

- Angela Whitaker, optometrist and co-author of the new guidance

Vision Now July 2022 13

GP Multipurpose & Lens Care Solutions

A range of solutions for all gas permeable lenses helping you to see life in detail.

Multipurpose Solutions for soft contact lenses

Safety, comfort, efficacy, because eye health is important to us.

14 Vision Now July 2022

For more information on Menicon Products visit www.menicon.co.uk or call 01604 646216

News General Optical Council Marcus Dye, acting director of regulatory strategy at the General Optical Council (GOC), has departed the organisation after seven years of service. Marcus led and introduced new standards of practice for optometrists and dispensing opticians and standards for optical students. He authored and led on the first pieces of Marcus Dye departs GOC supporting guidance to the standards on consent and candour, and oversaw the development of the new business standards and confidentiality guidance.

Marcus also oversaw the first three cycles of CET and commenced the review of the scheme, leading to the introduction of CPD in January 2022. Most recently, he led the GOC’s response to the Covid-19 emergency. He said: “It has been a great honour to work with GOC staff, council and stakeholders over the past seven years and to be at the forefront of some major, transformational projects. I will be taking a career break and I am looking forward to taking some time out to travel. I want to wish Leonie and the entire team success as they continue to strive for world-class regulation.”

Maui Jim

Pakalana with Maui Rose lenses

Pakalana is a seasonal vine with wide pointed leaves, and its starlike flower petals are often used to make sophisticated leis. Inspiring the latest addition to Maui Jim’s fashion collection, this nylon frame is similarly angular, showcasing a distinct square silhouette in a beveled construction. Suitable for most face shapes, Pakalana is available in black with a tortoise interior and neutral grey lenses, chocolate with a tortoise interior and HCL Bronze lenses, black cherry with a raspberry interior and Maui Rose lenses.

Continental Eyewear

AN INDEPENDENT VIEW Robust response required The call for evidence by the General Optical Council (GOC) in respect of changes to the Opticians Act has sparked a range of reactions – from ‘leave well alone’ to ‘introduce fundamental reform’.

It is vital that the independent sector has a strong voice in responding to the consultation. Whilst the need for reform of the provision of eye health care services, particularly in England, is widely acknowledged, there are different views on what form it should take and how it should be delivered.

For example, there are many different views on where dispensing opticians should be allowed to refract, and if so whether it should be under the supervision of an optometrist. Another issue is whether all optical practices should be required to register with the GOC, which would arguably enable more effective enforcement of business standards.

Perhaps an area whether there is a strong coalition of agreement is in respect of remote refraction and eye testing predicated on sales of eyewear. It is the view of some that recently introduced business models do not meet the requirements of the act as currently framed.

However, if there is room for interpretation, it surely makes sense for a revision to the current wording to provide complete clarity.

The AIO is paying a lot of attention to its response to the call for evidence, and will be drawing on the views and opinions of all members to help inform the final version.

The Association is also encouraging members to submit their own response, so that independents play a full part in shaping the future of the optical profession.

Fundamental to the AIO response will be the Association’s Manifesto, which calls for a complete restructuring of the provision of eye health care in the UK – and particularly in England where a single national strategy should be introduced to remove the absurd postcode lottery. To view the AIO Manifesto, please visit www.aiovision.org

Lazer Junior model 2206

It’ll soon be time to prepare your young patients for a new school year, so why not take a look at the latest styles for children in the Lazer Junior collection from Continental Eyewear. The comprehensive range is designed to offer practices high quality children’s eyewear at affordable prices and has styles for all ages. Model 2206 (pictured) is one of the latest styles for girls; a petite rounded frame with a glitter effect on the temples. This style is available in blue, pink, purple, rose and black.

Vision Now July 2022 15

TX5/Titanium Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975

www.steppereyewear.com 16 Vision Now July 2022

Style shown not available in all markets.

P R AC T I C E M AT T E R S

Developing thoughts Implementing efficiencies across your business is a complete ‘no brainer’, writes Phil Mullins

W

Efficiencies a ‘no brainer’

e have all heard about the costof-living crisis and rumours that the UK economy is set to fall into recession. As in the past, experts are talking up the cost-saving benefits of companies being more “efficient” and staff being more “productive”. But ‘efficiencies’ shouldn’t be implemented just during the tough times; it’s a total ‘no brainer’ to continuously work to improve the efficiency of your business.

Although the optical sector has made improvements over the years, with increased take-up of new and advanced technologies, many practices still operate very traditionally. But with minimal change most could become vastly more efficient – potentially leading to bigger profits and higher incomes.

The most obvious efficiency change over recent decades has been the widening use of practice management software (PMS).

When I joined the industry 34 years ago, everything was recorded on paper. What a difference it made to be able to use computers to store patient records and print recalls. Fully utilising a solid PMS can radically improve the efficiency of any practice – be it in clinic management, stock control, record keeping or financial transactions.

COMPUTER SAYS ‘YES’ Some of the biggest efficiencies can be made in the realm of clinic management. If you move to a paperless system, you can save yourself considerable time each and every day. No pulling out paper files every morning then filing them away at the end of the day. No spending hours trying to locate files stored in the wrong place. Using electronic records across the business simply makes financial sense.

To give you some idea of the costsavings involved, you can do a simple calculation. If it takes one hour a day to pull out records and file them, and the member of staff is paid £10.50 per hour, and you run

Docmail, the hybrid mailing specialist that offers NEG members and Optinet users a mailing cost from just 62p. This includes a white envelope with printed logo, the letter and the posting; saving you 60p per letter.

So if you sent 250 recalls each month, you could save at least £1,800 per year. The added bonus for NEG members is that, instead of having to top up your Docmail account, you can charge it to your NEG account. This makes the entire process more efficient and cost-effective.

Use your PMS to improve practice efficiency

testing five days per week, the annual cost is £2,730 basic. Add your employer costs and it comes to more than £3,000 per year just to carry out basic filing. Never mind the time it takes to complete NHS forms.

Even if you are using an online platform, information still needs to be completed for each record.

By using integrated eGOS in your PMS, you can speed up the process and reduce errors considerably. The PMS automatically completes the form with patient details, so the patient just confirms their eligibility and signs. The system will automatically say if the claim has been accepted, thus saving you the monthly task of having to complete returned claims.

Another area which can be considerably more efficient is the sending of recalls.

Although many practices have embraced using emails and SMS to contact patients, sending a letter is sometimes preferable or essential. Sending recalls has two main costs: staff and posting. It can often take staff hours each month to print, fold and post letters, particularly in a busy practice where there could be hundreds of recalls per month. Add to this the cost of ink, paper, envelopes and the 68p cost of a secondclass stamp, then the total cost of sending a letter is estimated to be around £1.22.

This is why we work closely with

YOU CAN’T BUY TIME As you can see from these two examples, it can be easy to find efficiencies in your practice. But often the response when discussing these issues is that the staff are here and being paid, so these are not ‘real’ savings. But ask yourself this: what could your staff could be doing if they weren’t doing these tasks? Well, they could be spending more time with your patients for a start.

The pandemic has proved that the more time you spend with patients, the higher their spend. The one thing that multiples are not good as good at as independents is spending time with patients. So, with efficiencies enabling your team to spend even more time with patients – you are saving time, money and increasing your income to boot. This then directly feeds into profitability.

Obviously, to make all this work you need a good, reliable PMS in your practice. So if you start looking at how you can improve the efficiency of your practice, and you don’t currently have a PMS or you don’t think your current software is up to the task, contact our IT division Optinet. Ask for a demonstration of what a difference Optinet FLEX can make to your practice and remember: as an NEG member you can take advantage of a 12-month free trial of Optinet FLEX, saving you even more. Find full details of Optinet FLEX at www.optinetuk.com ■ Vision Now July 2022 17

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P R AC T I C E M AT T E R S

Protecting the public

Maintaining the combined refraction and eye health check will ensure better patient outcomes and care delivery, say the UK’s optical bodies.

T

he launch of a call for evidence on the Opticians Act by the General Optical Council (GOC) has led to the profession’s two main UK membership organisations speaking out on the issue of maintaining the combined refraction and eye health check, and enabling dispensing opticians (DOs) to carry out a refraction under supervision.

In a recent statement, the Association of Optometrists (AOP) said its members had indicated their overwhelming support for maintaining a combined approach to refraction and the eye health check, currently forming the sight test.

In turn, ABDO has highlighted the need to protect the public by ensuring that the sight test continues to involve a refraction and eye health examination; and welcomed the GOC’s consultation on enabling DOs to refract as part of the sight test under the oversight of an optometrist.

KEEP LEGAL RESTRICTIONS The GOC launched its 16-week call for evidence in March with sight testing duties and six other topics open to consultation.

Registrants, sector bodies, employers, patients, and the public have all been asked to contribute to a body of evidence that will respond to potential legislative changes to the Act. To inform its response, the AOP asked members to share their views on the sight test – refraction and eye health check – via its community forum online.

The topic received a high number of responses that asked for the current system to be upheld, with AOP members citing ‘protecting the public,’ ‘the increased risk of missed pathology,’ and maintaining ‘high professional standards,’ as key factors.

Carolyn Ruston, AOP policy director, said: “We are delighted to see such a high level of engagement from our members and it’s reassuring to see that feedback aligns with our emerging position to what is a really significant consultation for the profession.

“Any proposed changes to the Opticians

Working together for patient safety

Act as a result of this consultation should be based on a strong patient benefit or need.

Maintaining the appropriate legal restrictions on sight testing is vital to better care outcomes – ensuring eye disease is detected and referred where needed,” added Carolyn.

FUTUREPROOFING LEGISLATION Speaking on behalf of ABDO, head of strategy, Alistair Bridge, said: “Allowing DOs to refract as part of the sight test is a change which ABDO has long called for and by ensuring that this happens under the oversight of an optometrist, patients will continue to benefit from a sight test that involves both an eye health examination and a refraction. This is a major strength of the UK’s system of eyecare, and enables eye and other health issues to be addressed at an early stage, in line with the wider policy focus on preventative healthcare.”

ABDO supports the GOC’s position that refraction by DOs “could free up the time of optometrists to support a wider range of clinical activities”. To support optometrists and medical practitioners in carrying out refraction as part of the sight test, DOs would also need to be appropriately trained, competent and indemnified.

Debbie McGill, ABDO head of policy and public affairs, commented: “It is important for the whole profession to think about how we envisage the future delivery of eye health care, which includes the provision of spectacles and contact lenses, when responding to this consultation. We

need to get this right to futureproof the legislative and regulatory support to enable optometrists, DOs and contact lens opticians to deliver services as they extend their scope of practice through their continued professional development in line with the public’s future eye health needs and safety.

“This is an opportunity for the profession to work together for the patient benefit to continue to provide the highest, safest, standards of eye health care and the provision of spectacles and contact lenses from optical practices throughout the UK,” Debbie added.

OTHER ISSUES UNDER SCRUTINY The GOC’s call for evidence includes views on the protection of title and restricted activities, remote care, and the regulation of businesses. The review is also seeking evidence on the sale of supply of optical appliances and the fitting of contact lenses.

To support its members’ understanding of the consultation’s aim and significance, the AOP has created FAQs on its website, www.aop.org.uk, where members can learn more about the topics, what the AOP is doing and how to get involved. Members of ABDO can read the Association’s detailed feedback to the GOC’s call for evidence in the Consultations section of its website, www.abdo.org.uk The call for evidence will close on 18 July and submissions can be made at consultation.optical.org/policy-andcommunications/call-for-evidence ■ Vision Now July 2022 19

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1. Chamberlain P et al. A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Myopia Control. Optom Vis Sci. 2019; 96(8): 556-567. 2. Chamberlain P et al. Myopia Progression in Children wearing Dual-Focus Contact Lenses: 6-year findings. Optom Vis Sci. 2020; 97(E-abstract): 200038. 3. Chamberlain P et al. Myopia progression on cessation of Dual-Focus contact lens wear: MiSight 1 day 7-year findings. Optom Vis Sci. 2021; 98(E-abstract): 210049. © 2022 CooperVision. CooperVision®, ActivControl® and MiSight® are registered trademarks of The Cooper Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

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PRODUCT PROFILE

Dry eye management: a circle of care Positive Impact is a business that is focused on meeting the needs of the independent eyecare professional, writes Ros Mussa

T

o help busy practitioners through the maze of products on the market, Positive Impact (PI) has taken care of the heavy lifting for you, by curating the Dry Eye Zone: a range of products it believes are the best in their respective categories. Not only that, to assist with the structure and communication of the management regimen for each individual patient, PI has created the Circle of Care (Figure 1).

In the same way that dry eye is cyclical, the Circle of Care is a similar representation of the process of continuous monitoring and management of dry eye. The aim is to explain the stages of care to patients whilst helping manage patient expectations; there is often no quick fix and it requires a significant degree of compliance to achieve the best results.

MAKING AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS The patient journey starts before management – it starts with diagnosis.

No longer is some dye and counting to 10 sufficient to accurately diagnose dry eye. Whilst not the focus of this article, PI offers the independent practice a suite of affordable and easy-to-use diagnostic tools.

Each diagnostic system provides an insight into the underlying cause, and includes: ■ TearLab: to measure tear film osmolarity ■ InflammaDry: tracks levels of inflammation ■M eiCam: provides affordable imaging and recording of the patient meibography

Figure 2: Gentle, effective formula for everyday use

Figure 3: Harnessing nature’s own anti-microbial power

The importance of using all available data was stressed in the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) DEWS II Report, with a recommendation for the use of osmolarity measurement and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) imaging. The use of biomarkers to indicate when inflammation is present was also discussed1.

SIX SIMPLE STEPS The Circle of Care consists of six steps, which show patients clearly the path and process being recommended. Remember: not every step may be required for every patient.

Figure 1: Curating the best available products in their categories

1&2. HEAT AND MASSAGE Where MGD is suspected, heat therapy is a staple. The Eye Doctor Premium Compress is clinically proven to deliver the optimal temperature profile so you can be confident of safety and efficacy (approximately 45˚C for 20 minutes)2. These seed and grain-free compresses generate penetrating moist heat, and bring the added security of the patented Sterileyes anti-bacterial cover that can also be removed and washed.

brevis (meibomian gland)3.

This unique and outstanding synergistic blend of plant origin ingredients was developed by independent optometrist, Craig Wilcox. Discovering there was nothing on the market that met his MGD patients' needs, Craig decided to create his own formulation. PI was so impressed with the DemEx performance, ease of use and compliance enhancing affordability that it asked to make it available to its customers.

3. EVERYDAY DEEP CLEANSING After massage, either manually or by using the Nulids electronic device, removing dirt and debris is required with the use of an effective cleanser. DemEx foaming cleanser (Figure 2) was chosen to be part of the Circle of Care because the formulation is gentle enough to be recommended to all patients for everyday use – but because of the presence of T4O, is effective enough to tackle more difficult cases such as when demodex is present.

DemEx contains miticidal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredients to improve overall eyelid and lash hygiene and condition. To achieve this optimal balance between efficacy and biocompatibility, DemEx only uses the active component of tea tree oil, T4O or 4-Terpineol. T4O has been shown to be effective against Demodex folliculorum (blepharitis/lash follicle) and Demodex

4. ANTI-MICROBIAL CARE Purifeyes (Figure 3) offers eyecare practitioners the opportunity to introduce a whole new level of patient care by harnessing the power of nature’s own antimicrobial properties4. Ocular inflammation is consistently found in patients with dry eye and has become a reliable biomarker for both symptomatic and asymptomatic sufferers. An important part of the management of this inflammation is to reduce the bacterial load on the lid margin5-7.

Purifeyes anti-microbial spray provides an innovative, cost-effective and easyto-use addition to your tools to combat inflammation. Purifeyes is produced by a unique proprietary process to create an ultra-pure hypochlorous, one of the most natural and effective biocides known, which has a broad spectrum anti-microbial performance8,9. › Vision Now July 2022 23

PRODUCT PROFILE

Figure 4: Founding father of the PI Dry Eye Zone

As a non-pharmacological alternative to topical antibiotics, Purifeyes does not result in anti-microbial resistance build-up, which means it can be used daily by patients at home as well in practice, both pre- and post-procedures that involve patient contact8.

5. HYDRATING DRY FEELING EYES Recognising that all eyecare practitioners will have a favourite eye drop, PI is committed to encouraging those yet to experience the benefits of HydraMed eye drops (Figure 4) to consider trialling suitable patients, especially those using a hyaluronate only formulation.

HydraMed is the founding father of the PI Dry Eye Zone, included because of its unique patented bi-polymer. This utilises the mucomimetic benefits of tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) and combines it with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA). The synergistic action of these two molecules has been clinically proven to outperform HA alone, giving five times more relief10. After one month of regular use of HydraMed, improvement was seen in the condition of the tear film and ocular surface, including an 48 per cent improvement in microvilli, compared to HA alone10,11.

The hypotonic formulation was also shown to deliver longer comfortable wearing times to contact lens wearers when applying a drop of HydraMed inside the lens before insertion. A UK eyecare practitioner-led study showed HydraMed improved contact lens comfort not only at the start, but also at the end of the day12.

6. SUPPLEMENTS Eyecare practitioners who are serious about dry eye often take a more holistic approach to management, incorporating changes to lifestyle and diet. When looking at diet, you

24 Vision Now July 2022

need to know that you are recommending a best-in-class supplement to your patients.

Dry Omega from Eye Nutrients (Figure 5) uses a unique combination of natural marine and plant oils, which delivers high levels of EPA, DHA and DPA with a highly palatable taste.

Dry Omega was created by leading ophthalmologists and uses only high quality, natural and sustainable ingredients. The blend of marine and plant oils includes natural anti-oxidants for greater stability or ‘freshness’, which avoids fishy tastes and smells.

Using lemon to give a fresh zesty flavour, Dry Omega liquid has a delicate palatable taste, and can be incorporated into the patient’s everyday foods such as dressings to aid patient compliance. Dry eye patients will also appreciate that Dry Omega capsules use fish gelatine, not beef, making them Halal.

DON’T RECOMMEND: PRESCRIBE PI is committed to working in partnership with the independent sector and appreciates that independent eyecare practitioners combine both clinical and business roles, which can sometimes create time pressures on busy practices.

The company has developed a prescription pad that incorporates the Circle of Care and allows practitioners to adapt their treatment plan to reflect each patient’s individual requirements. These are provided free of charge to PI customers, along with an editable PDF version.

PEER-TO-PEER TRAINING PI considers itself part of the independent practice team and, therefore, has experienced optical professionals doing much of the practice support. This includes product training and best practice tips on setting up a dry eye clinic. This can be either face-to-face or online in the form of one-to-one sessions or webinars. To learn

more more about how PI and its best-inclass product range that makes up the Dry Eye Zone: Circle of Care, email info@positiveimpact.co.uk REFERENCES

1. Wolffsohn JS et al. TFOS DEWS II Diagnostic Methodology report. The Ocular Surface 15 (2017) 539-574.

2. Lacroix Z et al. Ex vivo heat retention of different eyelid warming masks. Contact Lens & Anterior Eye 2015 38(3);152-156. doi: 10.1016/j. clae.2015.01.005 3. Jones L et al. TFOS DEWS II Management and Therapy Report. The Ocular Surface 2017;15:593-594 4. Block MS and Rowan BG. Hypochlorous Acid: A Review. J. Oral Maxillofac. Surg.

2020;78(9):1461-1466. doi:10.1016/j. joms.2020.06.029 5.Machalinska A et al. Comparison of morphological and functional meibomian gland characteristics between daily contact lens wearers and non-wearers. Cornea 2015;34(9):1098-104.

6. Wu H. The severity of the dry eye conditions in visual display terminal workers. PLoS One 2014;9(8);e105575.

7. Mocan MC et al. The association of chronic topical prostaglandin analog use with meibomian gland dysfunction. J. Glaucoma 2016:25(9):770-41.

8. Stroman DW et al. Reduction in bacterial load using hypochlorous acid hygiene solution on ocular skin. Clin. Ophthalmol. 2017; 11:707. doi:10.2147/OPTH.S132851.

9. Gold MH et al. Topical stabilized hypochlorous acid: The future gold standard for wound care and scar management in dermatologic and plastic surgery procedures. J. Cosmet. Dermatol.

2020;19(2):270-277.

10. Uccello-Barretta G et al. Synergistic interaction between TS-polysaccharide and hyaluronic acid: Implications in the formulation of eye drops. International Journal of Pharmaceutics 2019;395:122-131.

11. Allavena F and Roland M. Open-label randomised clinical trial on the efficacy and tolerability of HydraMed in the treatment of dry eye syndrome. University of Genova. Data on file.

12. Atkins N. Using dry eye drops when inserting contact lenses. Optician 2011; 7 October:24-29

Contact lens optician Ros Mussa FBDO CL has a special interest in dry eye.

She combines working in practice with a range of advisory, educational and professional services roles including CPD provider and visiting lecturer at City University. Ros recently joined the Positive Impact clinical affairs team. ■

Figure 5: Unique combination of natural marine and plant oils

SOC 2022

Look north for CPD

This year’s Scottish Optical Conference (SOC) takes place on Sunday 20 November in Glasgow – and everyone’s invited...

“A

lthough the Scottish Optical Conference is the largest northern one-day event in the optical industry, it attracts eyecare practitioners from across the UK,” says Dr Scott Mackie.

Previously the man behind Eyecare 3000, Scott jointly organises the SOC with Dr Roisin Mackie, a former College of Optometrists assessor. Both have substantial experience in running successful education events and are well known throughout the industry.

The SOC continues to work in conjunction with other stakeholders, including National Education for Scotland, Optometry Scotland, the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, British Contact Lens Association and Glasgow Caledonian University. With its extensive contacts book, the SOC has established itself as a popular annual fixture in the CET – now CPD – calendar.

Dr Scott Mackie

lens opticians and dispensing opticians.

The CPD sessions will include interactive lectures as well as peer discussion workshops. Alongside the educational content, an exhibition of 50 leading suppliers will be on hand to meet and greet delegates and highlight all aspects of a modern day eyecare practice.

SOC in Glasgow beckons

Three education tracks available

This year’s conference, being held in the city’s Radisson Blue Hotel, offers three education tracks with more than 45 CPD points available for optometrists, independent prescriber practitioners, contact

TIME TO NETWORK As always, delegates will enjoy the chance to network with like-minded professionals to discuss the important issues of the day.

“Although the event is just on the Sunday, many delegates and exhibitors will be travelling up on the Saturday,” said Scott, “so there will be opportunities to catch up in the bar on the Saturday evening or over dinner.”

Delegates can also take advantage of preferential rates at the Radisson Blu hotel by quoting ‘SOC’ when booking. For those who are staying at the hotel on the Saturday night, there will be a free drinks reception from 9:30pm until midnight. NEG members are being offered a discounted delegate rate of £49. To book a place and to pay online go to www.soc.scot Still not sure if this is the event for you?

Then this is what previous delegates have said about the SOC: ■ “A great event. Represented incredibly good value for money, and worth travelling to Glasgow for the day. Will be back” ■ “Great value for money; loved well designed mix of education and exhibition.

Something for everyone” ■ “Workshops were delivered with expertise and enthusiasm by clinicians and industry experts” Places at this year’s SOC are available on a first come, first served basis, with a limited number of places available on each track. So do book early to avoid disappointment. Visit www.soc.scot and book your place today. ■ Vision Now July 2022 25

PRODUCT PROFILE

Growing from within Julian Wiles and Eluned Creighton-Sims look at how DriveWear and NuPolar lenses can generate new, profitable and sustainable revenue streams

T

he objective of this article is to bring together three threads: clinical, business and innovative lenses. You now have everything you need to potentially double your business without seeing a single new patient. All you need to do is learn about DriveWear and NuPolar technology, understand how the eye works, and make it easy for patients to say: “yes”.

It would be safe to say we are all experiencing unprecedented assaults on our businesses and, faced with more regulation, things won’t get easier any time soon. But there are some positive certainties – and it’s worth evaluating how these opportunities can help generate new, profitable and sustainable revenue for your business.

Where do you expect growth to come from in the next few years? Finding new patients? Selling more to those you already see? Selling to your best clients more often?

It may be more progressive power lens sales, sports vision, low vision, going private, adopting a hybrid GOS/private model, contact lenses, and so on. But the largest untapped potential is those people who already trust you for their overall eye health.

TODAY’S BIG THEMES Today's ‘big themes’ in optics are: polarisation, photochromics, protection, myopia control, driving and vision and Camber technology. For the purposes of this article, we will concentrate on polarisation, photochromics, and driving and vision.

Polarisation is probably less than five per cent of your business, and photochromics typically around 10 per cent (+/- five per cent). What would be the impact on your business if you offered every patient their first pair of prescription NuPolar lenses as a part of an overall eye health package? What would happen to your business if every time you asked your patient: “Do you drive?” – you recommended DriveWear lenses?

The answer lies within your database and in your information, communication and education strategy. These are not the same things: information is a one-way street, from you to ‘them’. Communication is a dialogue between two people, and education raises ‘every boat’. There are rarely any ‘right’ answers, despite what the marketing departments would have you believe. What is

26 Vision Now July 2022

Transitions DriveWear sunglasses model DW6 and DW1 (courtesy of Younger Optics)

Intelligent Sunglasses

Transitions DriveWear sunglass model DW4 (courtesy of Younger Optics)

right for one is different for another. So what do we all have in common?

UNDERSTANDING PHOTORECEPTORS By understanding photoreceptors, and how they work, you have the cornerstone of your new business strategy. The retina contains two types of photoreceptor: cones and rods.

Six to seven million cones concentrated in a 0.3mm ‘rod free’ region of the fovea centralis are vital to our vision. Cones provide our photopic vision during the day time or under bright light. Cones are red (64 per cent), green (32 per cent), and blue (two per cent), and provide the eye's colour sensitivity. Green and red cones are concentrated in the fovea centralis. Blue

cones have the highest sensitivity and are mostly found outside the fovea, leading to some distinctions in the eye's blue perception.

Cones are less sensitive to light than rods, and are responsible for all high-resolution vision. Daylight vision (cone vision) adapts much more rapidly (in a few seconds) to changing light levels. Like all neurons, cones 'fire' to produce an electrical impulse on the nerve fibre layer and then must reset to fire again. This light adaption is thought to occur by adjusting the reset time. The eye moves continually to keep the light from the object of interest falling on the fovea centralis, where the bulk of cones reside.

Some 120 million rods deliver

PRODUCT PROFILE monochromatic vision and are responsible for scotopic vision (night vision), our most sensitive motion detection, and our peripheral vision. Rods are incredibly efficient photoreceptors and more than 1,000 times as sensitive as cones. They can reportedly be triggered by individual photons under optimal conditions. The optimum darkadapted vision is reached after 30 minutes.

The level of the light where both cones and rods work, is called a mesopic vision.

Loss of photoreceptors plays a vital role in the development of age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, and so they need protecting. This can be done through diet, exercise, not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight/BMI; genetics are more important however.

You can’t discuss photoreceptors in isolation, which leads us onto glare: useless light which carries no information. Glare is subjective and affects people in different ways. It can be described as disabling or uncomfortable, and it affects older people more.

Disability glare is the reduction of visibility caused by an intense light source (the sun). Discomfort glare is the sensation of annoyance, or even pain, induced by an overly bright source. Neither natural phenomenon is something you want any of your patients to experience.

INTELLIGENT CHOICE FOR DRIVERS The eyes are the only source of information about objects on the road. However, there are various other factors that interfere with the visual information ranging from: retinal complications (e.g. retinal pathologies, visual field defects, colour anomalies, etc); muscular complications (e.g. ptosis, phorias and tropias); general pathologies (e.g. cataract, aniseikonia, etc); spectacle complications (e.g. distortions, glare, dirt); windscreen visibility (e.g. obstructions, tint); and even the weather. This is without considering other factors such as issues with the vehicle, driver fatigue, internal distractions and driver competency.

Driving against the setting sun, or rising sun, causes extreme contrasts. A windscreen increases the noise level of the visual input that a driver receives. Internal reflections, and surface scratch reflections, reduce image contrast. Glass surfaces already reflect about 20 per cent of the visible light (considering a windscreen set at an angle of 20˚ from the vertical) and provide a convenient location for dust, water droplets and bugs to collect.

Windscreen reflections of objects inside the car are a serious source of signalattenuation noise, with the back of the

Screening with MP-Eye (courtesy of Azul Optics)

NuPolar glare demonstrator (courtesy of Younger Optics)

windscreen acting like a mirror. This potentially reflects the top of the dashboard, so it appears superimposed on the road ahead. If the mirror image of the dashboard is brighter than the road, the motorist will find it difficult to see through the reflected image. In certain circumstances, such as when driving vehicles with a sunroof/ drop top, a light coloured dashboard, and potentially when driving against the setting or rising sun, the driver will be unable to see through it at all.

DriveWear is marketed as: “The only intelligent (adaptive) resin prescription polarised photochromic sunglass lens for drivers”. The lens is patented and continues to have no direct competitor. Every pair of glasses is a compromise; there are good compromises and bad compromises.

Multiple pairs are the only way to meet all expectations It is not safe changing glasses while driving, as this impacts on reaction time and you’re not paying attention to the road.

DriveWear suits many more situations than a fixed tint, so you only need to change them in the twilight. Light changes a great deal whilst driving: the sun goes behind a cloud, you drive under a canopy of trees, rain, fog and so on. So one lens, which automatically adapts, is better in terms of safety and quality of vision.

From around 7pm in May, it can be extremely bright when driving west but a change of direction means the light reduces significantly. DriveWear automatically adapts to this change. When you get in the car, you check your position, your mirrors, your seatbelt and put on DriveWear. You don’t wear your slippers to work, so why should your ‘usual’ glasses be good enough for driving?

In terms of tint, you only have to advise patients not to wear them in twilight and at night. At all other times, they will automatically adapt. Consider this: someone

is wearing a fixed standard tint nine per cent light transmittance factor (LTF) whilst driving at 7.45pm late May. Suddenly, they drive under a canopy of trees right as the sun goes in. If they had an accident, would they be liable for wearing the incorrect tint?

Additionally, how important is fixation and visual acuity at 60mph? If you take 0.25 seconds to see and react, you have travelled 22 feet (and hopefully avoided the accident).

Many drivers have prescription sunwear.

DriveWear is the best solution.

GRASS REALLY IS GREENER NuPolar polarised lenses meet the current legal requirement for driving (minimum nine per cent LTF) and so are preferable to tinted standard lenses, which can end up being too dark for many people. NuPolar lenses ensure the eyes are more relaxed, with less squinting and better contrast. Once worn, you may find that patients never go back to standard tints on sunglass lenses.

Dispensing lenses to the standard of NuPolar can enhance your standing as a professional who provides the best advice and the best products to your patients. It can further enhance your practice as using quality lenses, and promote loyalty along the way.

Demonstration is crucial. Allow all your patients to see NuPolar in action with its special demonstrator tool; help them to understand that not all polarised lenses are the same. A one-minute screening with the MP-Eye, developed and manufactured in the UK by Azul Optics, can provide clinical justification for your recommendation of sun protection and glare reduction offered by NuPolar and DriveWear.

Learn the eight points of difference that sets NuPolar lenses apart from all its competitors, and communicate these to your patients as you demonstrate them. Of course, you are free to offer your patients any polarised lenses. The choice is yours.

Julian Wiles is the owner of Performance Lenses. Eluned Creighton-Sims FBDO is a consultant for IOT Lenses. The authors have expressed their own views in this article. ■ Vision Now July 2022 27

ST Y L E S P OT L I G H T

Positive Luxury In this month’s Style Spotlight, Eyespace highlights its response to the demand for sustainable luxury.

T

he most important realisations tend to occur simultaneously across a community – and so it has been with the emergence of sustainable luxury over the last two years. From the established Italian fashion houses to nimble start-ups, sustainable materials are the new backbone for premium retail. How is eyewear responding?

Last summer, while Eyespace meticulously researched a new generation of sustainable materials and methods for its eyewear lines, the automotive industry waited with bated breath as Land Rover’s newly appointed CEO, Thierry Bolloré, took to Zoom to set out his global vision for the brand. His leading ambition? “A sustainability-rich reimagining of modern luxury…with positive societal impact and net zero carbon emissions across our supply chain, products and operations.”

The same week, Mariya Dykalo, creative director British luxury accessories brand Aspinal of London, posted on Instagram whilst tending to the 15 beehives on the company’s West Sussex estate. The industrious insects are the inspiration behind Dykalo’s Bee Aspinal campaign, which aims to reduce the company’s environmental impact by eliminating single use plastic and supporting biodiversity projects.

In short, luxury brands can make bold statements. They have a combination of influence and resources to make resolutions about sustainability that are authentic and can be put into action. At the instigation of its founders, Eyespace became a leader in sustainable innovation. Enviro-conscious product materials are central to its approach, and understanding the impacts of material choices supports in selecting the innovations that are being continually rolled out across its award-winning portfolio.

28 Vision Now July 2022

Mariya Dykolo, Aspinal of London creative director

EVOLVING WITH RENEWABLE MATERIALS In 2021 Eyespace introduced G850 Rnew to its Land Rover collection, a cutting-edge renewable material derived sustainably from castor seed oil farmed in arid areas

of South Asia under the pioneering Pragati agricultural scheme. Through Pragati, castor bean farming provides fair and steady incomes for more than 4,500 smallholding farms while promoting sustainable farming.

This increases yields due to more efficient practices, and lowers water consumption by approximately 25 per cent.

The G850 material offers outstanding performance; it is 20 per cent lighter than traditional resins, durable and resistant to impact and environmental stress cracking.

A collection of optical frames are made with this premium bio-based material, while a selection of metal designs are made with high recycled content stainless steel, a rare innovation in eyewear and sourced from a specialist supplier to ensure the highest quality for optical use.

Eyespace’s CEO and co-founder, Jayne Abel, explains: “The optical industry sits firmly within fashion culture, and we need more than token gestures. We are driven

ST Y L E S P OT L I G H T

New Land Rover styles feature G850 Rnew: a renewable material

Metal Land Rover design made with high recycled content stainless steel

Luxury brands like Aspinal of London are making bold sustainability statements

by an informed awareness of the modern climate crisis, and our responsibility as business owners to be custodians of our industry monitoring and managing its impact on the natural world. We are passionate to prove that green practices are practical, profitable and attainable, changing the way the optical community thinks and providing choices for practices and patients so that they are empowered to make the right decisions for the future of our planet.”

Aspinal of London offers a comprehensive library of consciously developed frame designs supplied by Eyespace. Reflecting on the last two years, Aspinal’s creative director, Mariya Dykalo, says: “We have witnessed nature’s reset, from wildlife flourishing across all parts of the globe to seas and rivers clearing, to the disappearance of air pollution visible from outer space. We are more aware than ever of the effects our way of life is having on our planet, and the positive steps we can

take to make a difference.”

Collaborating only with partners whose values are entirely aligned with theirs, Eyespace and Aspinal work harmoniously with a mutual goal that sees environmental responsibility an absolute priority. Both the sunwear and optical collections are responsibly crafted using sustainable materials and inspired by the Bee Aspinal environmental campaign, with tastefully inlaid bee metalwork in the frame tips.

Aspinal is proud to have set up its own in-house Bee Foundation, with a growing number of hives on its site in Fernhurst to provide the bees with an environment to breed and nurture their young.

REGENERATING FOR THE FUTURE Eyespace recently unveiled a new sustainable optical collection of frames made in Italy from Econyl; nylon regenerated from fishing nets and fabric offcuts. Exclusively previewed at 100% Optical in April, the prelaunch generated unprecedented interest, and demand for the new pieces far exceeded expectations.

Jayne comments: “This collection is just one of the ways we are actively disrupting and improving every stage of how we create our products because we know our industry can play a key role in building a sustainable future through science and innovation. We believe innovative materials like Econyl are the future, transforming industrial surplus into incredible designs and raising the profile of possibilities of a more circular fashion system.”

"Regenerative has become somewhat of a buzzword in fashion of late," says Marc Palahi, chair of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance. "Ultimately, it’s about replenishing our eco systems in a way that allows them to continue to bounce back – moving away from the linear, extractive way in which the industry currently operates towards a more

nature-based system. It’s investing back in nature, with biodiversity.”

Eyespace began a journey in 2019, which now sees a series of milestone green initiatives being rolled out to every brand in the company’s portfolio, including bio-acetates and biodegradable packaging.

Since then, the team has worked tirelessly to ensure frames are developed using responsibly sourced materials and through an ethical production process. The company has taken an industry-leading approach, introducing regular Green Summits during which practice representatives are invited to discover the latest green initiatives, future-proofing guidance and exclusive insights into forthcoming product innovations.

Later this year, Eyespace will release a new line of luxury optical frames within the ultra-premium Range Rover collection, composed with Mazzucchelli M49 bioacetate and recycled stainless steel.

Mazzucchelli M49 is composed of cellulose acetate and a plasticiser of vegetable origin, while holding all the aesthetical characteristics of traditional acetate. This ensures the signature design influence that makes the designer collection instantly discernible as Range Rover Eyewear is not compromised. Tactile, M49 is ‘warm and silky’ to the touch, allowing the wearer a perceived sense of luxury, which can only come from natural substances.

The World Wildlife Fund report, Deeper Luxury by Jem Bendell and Anthony Kleanthous, defines authentic luxury brands as: “Those that provide the greatest positive contribution to all affected by its creation, and that identify their consumers as having the means and motivation to respect both people and planet".

Gathering ISO accreditations and the UK optical industry’s first sustainable award, Eyespace tirelessly continues its aims to offer an effortless solution to those in search of social and ecological change, adding to the growing ripples of environmental revolution. ■

Aspinal of London design made with Econyl

Vision Now July 2022 29

Preferred Suppliers’ directory tel: 01580 713698 | web: www.nationaleyecare.co.uk ALCON UK

tel: 0371 376 0017 | fax: 0871 351 1005 | web: www.uk.alcon.com

AOS LTD

tel: 01932 943 040 | email: info@aos-hub.com | web: www.aos-hub.com

SUPPLIER – OPTICIAN – PATIENT

OUR PARTNERSHIP

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL

tel: 01628 605433 | fax: 01628 665077 | email: sales@assopt.co.uk | web: www.associatedoptical.com

ATLANTIC OPTICAL UK LTD

tel: 02920 362 136 | fax: 02920 362 137 | email: info@atlanticoptical.co.uk | web: www.atlanticoptical.co.uk

T: 01132 883094 E: RawdonCC@rawdonoptical.co.uk

BAUSCH + LOMB

tel: 020 8781 2900 | web: www.bausch.co.uk

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS

T: 02920 883 009 E: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk

tel: 01438 740823 | email: sales@bibonline.co.uk | web: www.bibonline.co.uk

BONDEYE OPTICAL

T: 01279 653785 E: TantCC@tantlabs.com

tel: 0121 7723888 | fax: 0808 2801865 | email: sales@bondeyeoptical.co.uk | web: www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

CENTROSTYLE OPTICAL CENTRE SUPPLIES LTD

tel: 01923 239267 | fax: 01923 253951 | email: sales@centrostyle.com | web: www.centrostyle.com

T: 02920 857 122 E: Eyewear@lenstec.co.uk

CFH DOCMAIL

tel: 07834 173 288 | email: chris.burridge@cfh.com | web: www.docmail.co.uk

CHARMANT UK CO LTD

tel: 020 8992 9222 | fax: 020 8896 0287 | email: sales@charmant.co.uk | web: www.charmant.co.uk

CITATION

tel: 0161 464 6731 I email: iain.mcgleish@citation.co.uk | web: www.citation.co.uk

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

tel: 0151 426 3907 | fax: 0151 426 9340 | email: sales@continental-eyewear.co.uk | web: www.continental-eyewear.com

COOPERVISION

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SIMPLIFIED

tel: 0870 9000 055 | web: www.coopervision.co.uk

DE RIGO UK LTD

tel: 01923 249491 | email: info.uk@derigo.com | web: www.derigo.com | web: www.derigo.com/eng

DUNELM OPTICAL

tel: 01388 420420 | fax: 01388 810101 | email: dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.uk | web: www.dunelmoptical.co.uk

ESSILOR

Optinet Flex, the innovative software that keeps your optometry business at the cutting edge.

tel: 01454 281281 | fax: 01454 281282 | web: www.essilor.co.uk

EYESPACE

tel: 01527 870550 | fax: 01527 837012 | email: info@eyespace-eyewear.co.uk | web: www.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

EYEWEAR DIRECT (EUROPE) LTD

0845 313 0233 sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

tel: 020 7193 3334 | web: eyewear-direct.net

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

tel: 0800 9178270 | web: www.goeyeweargroup.com

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING

OPTINET DIRECTORY AD - FEB 21_AW.indd 01/03/2021 109:47

tel: 01442 502 330 | fax: 01442 242 386 | web: www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

HILCO EUROPE

tel: 0800 591150 | email: info@hilco.co.uk | web: www.hilcovision.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK

tel: 0845 330 0984 | fax: 0845 330 0977 | email: enquiries@hoya.co.uk | email: orders@hoya.co.uk web: www.hoyavision.com/uk

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

tel: 0121 585 6565 | fax:0121 585 0954 | web: www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

LAB3SIXTY

tel: 0113 5211071 | email: Info@Lab3Sixty.co.uk | web: www.lab3sixty.co.uk

LENSTEC EYEWEAR

tel: 02920 857122 | fax: 02920 920480 | email: sales@lensteceyewear.co.uk | web: www.lensteceyewear.co.uk

LENSTEC OPTICAL

tel: 02920 883009 | fax: 02920 889798 | email: LenstecCC@lenstec.co.uk | web: www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

30 Vision Now July 2022

Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975

www.stepper.co.uk

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD tel: 029 2073 5293 | fax: 029 2073 1446 | email: info@louisstone.co.uk | web: www.louisstone.co.uk

LUNEAU TECHNOLOGY UK/IRELAND – VISIONIX

tel: 07383 555659 | email: infouk@luneautech.com | web: www.luneautech.co.uk

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD

tel: 0808 165 8555 | web: www.luxottica.com

MARCHON

tel: 0800 72 2020 | email: csuk@marchon.com

MARK’ENNOVY

tel: 0800 3280610 | fax: 0800 3280649 | email: mkservices@markennovy.com | web: www.markennovy.com

MENICON UK LTD (FORMERLY DAVID THOMAS)

tel: 01604 646216 | fax: 01604 790366 | email: enquiries@menicon.co.uk | web: www.menicon.co.uk

When you prescribe contact lenses, you prescribe freedom.

We’re stepping up to do more, supporting you to Prescribe Freedom for more people than ever.

MPG GmbH

tel: 07583 076 132 | email: andrew.davies@mpg-eyewear.com | web: www.mpg-eyewear.com

MID-OPTIC

tel: 01332 295001 | fax: 01332 295158 | email: orders@midoptic.com | web: www.midoptic.com

NORVILLE

tel: 01452 510321 | email: sales@norville.co.uk | web: www.norville.co.uk

coopervision.co.uk

No7 CONTACT LENSES

tel: 01424 850620 | fax: 01424 850650 | email: info@no7contactlenses.com | web: www.no7contactlenses.com

OPTINET LTD

tel: 0845 313 0233 | email: sales@optinetuk.com | web: www.optinetuk.com

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

tel: 01536 529696 | fax: 01536 310033 | web: www.performancefinance.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACT

tel: 08446 696907 | email: sales@positiveimpact.co.uk | web: www.positiveimpact.co.uk

PRACTICE BUILDING

tel: 0115 989 9772 | email: andy@practicebuilding.co.uk | web: www.practicebuilding.co.uk

PRO-OPTIC

tel: 01884 266130 | email: sales@pro-optic.com | web: www.pro-optic.co.uk

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

tel: 024 7601 0103 | email: dean@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk | web: www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk

RODENSTOCK

tel: 01474 325555 | email: sales@rodenstock.co.uk | web: www.rodenstock.co.uk

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

tel: 01452 610033 | fax: 01452 638250 | email: orders@seiko-optical.co.uk | email: info@seiko-optical.co.uk web: www.seiko-optical.co.uk

SILHOUETTE UK LTD

tel: 020 8987 8899 | fax: 020 8987 2430 | email: office@uk.silhouette.com | web: www.silhouette.com

SPEC-CARE LTD

tel: 01392 460806 | email: info@speccareservices.co.uk | web: www.speccareservices.co.uk

STEPPER UK

tel: 01732 375975 | email: sales@stepper.co.uk | web: www.steppereyewear.com

TANT LABORATORIES

tel: 01279 653785 | fax: 01279 658308 | email: TantCC@tantlabs.com | web: www.lenstecopticalgroup.co.uk

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS

tel: 0845 521 1290 | fax: 01782 717 944 | web: www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

ULTRAVISION

tel: 01525 381112 | fax: 01525 370091 | email: info@ultravision.co.uk | web: www.ultravision.co.uk

Windcave Ltd

tel: 0800 088 6040 | email: sales@windcave.com | web: www.windcave.com

Vision Now July 2022 31

Suppliers’ directory

Preferred Suppliers are suppliers who, by prior arrangement, offer members of the PK National Eyecare Group preferential terms. For full details and terms offered to the membership, please call 01580 713698.

Your mediflex® max 1 day contact lens family.

The mediflex® max 1 day family offers more prescription options than any other one-day contact lens family1 – and it’s exclusive* to NEG members. mediflex® max 1 day is the CooperVision House Brand version of MyDay®; available at the same price. All mediflex® max 1 day lenses are powered by Aquaform® Technology** – as found in Biofinity® – to create a naturally wettable lens that delivers incredible long-lasting comfort.

mediflex®

max 1 day Featuring the Aberration Neutralising System™ – as found in Biofinity® sphere – and provides correction for 99.9% of all spherical prescriptions.2

mediflex®

max 1 day toric Featuring Optmised Toric Lens Geometry™ – as found in Biofinity® toric – and offers the largest number of prescription options of any one-day toric lens.3

mediflex®

max 1 day multifocal Featuring the CooperVision® Binocular Progressive System™ – an evolution in lens design and fitting approach – offering the widest power range of any one-day multifocal lens.4

Talk to your CooperVision® Business Development Manager today. www.coopervision.co.uk *Within the UK&I market mediflex® is available exclusively to NEG members. **Re-brand from Smart Silicone™ Chemistry. No change to lens material or performance.

1. CVI data on file 2020. mediflex® max 1 day multifocal spherical power range +8.00D to -12.00D. Based on Rx option combinations (sph & add) available across all daily disposable so lenses in multifocal from four main manufacturers in UK, France, Germany and Italy Oct 2020. Cosmetic & Photochromatic CLs not included. Multiple base curve variants not included. 2. CooperVision® data on file 2020. Rx coverage database n=120,406 eyes for Rx with <0.75DC; 14 to 70 years. 3. Prescription option combinations of sph, cyl, axis. mediflex® max 1 day toric power range of sph component +6.00D to -10.00D extends at least +2.00D beyond competitor products, and at least -1.00D beyond competitor products. Based on prescription option combinations (sph, cyl, axis) available across all daily disposable toric so lenses from CVI, JJV, B+L and Alcon in UK, France, Germany and Italy Oct 2020. Cosmetic & Photochromatic CLs not included. Multiple base curve variants not included. 4. CVI data on file 2020. mediflex® max 1 day multifocal spherical power range +8.00D to -12.00D. Based on Rx option combinations (sph & add) available across all daily disposable so lenses in multifocal from four main manufacturers in UK, France, Germany and Italy Oct 2020. Cosmetic & Photochromatic CLs not included. Multiple base curve variants not included.

32 Vision Now July 2022